I’m known as the Midlife Crisis Queen online because I have been blogging about the opportunities presented by midlife challenges for the past few years. I first lost my marriage in 2001, then my job in 2004, and almost my home, before I woke up to the changes I needed to make NOW! There were so many times I felt completely lost, hopeless, and alone in this journey, but I did not give up. Eyes on the prize, even when it seems like an impossible dream!

I worked for decades as an academic research librarian, before transitioning at age 50 into my work as a writer, life change coach and speaker. After being a student of psychology for most of my life, I finally earned an M.A. degree in counseling psychology in 1995, to specialize in midlife psychology. I now offer individual counseling and coaching to those who seek a deeper understanding of their own midlife transition.

What inspired you to write this book?

I went through such a tough time when I divorced at age 46 and then lost my job. I even started my own dating service and then slowly realized I didn’t really believe in love myself. Then I got to work finding new ways to change that. I followed my intuition to a new faith in love and a few months later I met my soul mate.

What obstacles did you encounter in getting this book published?

No obstacles because I have trained myself all about self-publishing, and I’m now an expert!

How did you know you wanted to be a writer? How did you get started?

That was the toughest part for me! After being a librarian for 25 years, I was afraid all the best books had already been written. But after my midlife crisis, I hired a career coach who finally convinced me to follow my heart and become a writer at age 50.

Did you learn anything from writing and publishing this book?

Yes, I learned how much I have gained through my own process of believing in love again, both about myself and trusting in the universe. This book is a labor of love for me, a special Valentine to all who wish to believe in love again.

What is the best advice you could give other writers about writing or publishing?

Find a way to believe in yourself and what you have to say! Share yourself with the world.

Who is the perfect reader for your book?

Someone who is feeling lost on love’s path. Perhaps they have experienced a recent divorce or some other type of betrayal. My book is for those who want to believe that love is still out there waiting for them, but are afraid to dream again and trust in others.